Thinking back upon the wonderful night out you had enjoying some much needed time with your spouse it is possible that one drink too many was had. Now you are facing charges you never considered you would encounter. A drunk driving offense on your record in the form of either a DUI or DWI is the last thing you want following you around. If you find yourself in a situation where you have been charged with a drunk driving offense there are several things you can do to enhance your chances of getting the charge reduced or even dropped.
The first thing you should do after your arrest is take time to sit down and record the detail of your arrest. Document what you were doing, who you were with, how much you had to drink, what you ate and other details that seem unimportant now but can help your defense later. It is important to take note of where you were stopped, what was said between you and the officer, the names of the officers who stopped you and the circumstances surrounding your arrest and booking. Remember during the entire process to be respectful to the officers and cooperate without providing incriminating information.
Immediately contact an attorney experienced in DUI cases. Driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated cases are incredibly complex cases and require experience in the law to get results for you. In order for the prosecution to prove you were under the influence or intoxicated above the legal limit they must prove that the testing method used to gain your blood alcohol level was working correctly. Local laws will also require certain proof as well. If the prosecution has not provided everything needed to prove guilt your lawyer will be able to play the system in your favor.
Every state has their own laws regarding field sobriety testing. In some states you can choose to refuse a field sobriety test. If this is an option in the state that you reside you may wish to invoke this right and forgo the alcohol sobriety test in the field. It is good to note that if officers decide to take you back to the police station a breathalyzer test may be required. If this is refused you will most likely lose your license. If you have an attorney available to consult with you may choose to have him/her meet you at the station to ensure your rights are not violated.
The last thing you want after a casual night out with a few beverages and drinks is to find yourself in a situation that leaves you battling a possible DUI or DWI. Take caution when out and about and having beverages. It is amazing how little one person actually has to drink before being considered over the legal limit to operate a motor vehicle. If you find yourself in this unfamiliar situation don’t panic. Hiring an experienced DUI attorney that will help you face the charges at hand will make all the difference in the world when it comes to what is reported on your permanent record, if anything at all.